In December 2024, a delegation from the Hoover Institution visited Mexico to investigate the persistent economic stagnation affecting Latin America. This visit was part of the Hoover Prosperity Program, led by Stephen Haber, which aims to identify effective laws and policies that can foster economic growth in the region. During their stay, the delegation participated in a conference titled 'The Middle-Income Trap in Latin America' held at the Centro de Investigación y Docencia Económicas (CIDE) in Mexico City [2f5f12aa].
Research presented at the conference highlighted various geographic factors influencing economic development, drawing comparisons between Mexico City and Paris. Mateo Hoyos shared findings on the differing impacts of trade liberalization on various economies, while Avidit Acharya discussed the conditions necessary for middle-income countries to escape stagnation. Additionally, Francisco Cabrera pointed out a troubling correlation between increased Chinese imports and higher dropout rates in Mexico, raising concerns about the long-term implications for the country's workforce [2f5f12aa].
Alejandrina Salcedo also contributed to the discussion by questioning Mexico's current growth strategies and the structural challenges that continue to hinder progress. The insights gathered from this delegation are expected to inform future policy recommendations aimed at enhancing economic prosperity across Latin America [2f5f12aa].